Himachal Outpaces Nation in Income Levels with ₹2.57 Lakh Per Capita

Himachal Pradesh has once again proven that size isn’t everything when it comes to economic performance. According to the latest Human Development Report by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the hill state has outpaced the national average in per capita income, thanks to its thriving horticulture, tourism, and industrial sectors.

For the financial year 2024–25, Himachal’s per capita income stood at ₹2,57,512—a solid 9.6% jump from the previous year. In comparison, the national average was ₹2,34,859. The report credits the state’s economic resilience to its expanding service sector, booming construction, and a flourishing horticulture industry that continues to bear fruit—literally and figuratively.

But the real story lies in the district-level breakdown, which reveals a tale of two Himachals.

Solan: The Economic Powerhouse
Leading the pack is Solan, with a staggering per capita income of nearly ₹8 lakh per person in 2022–23. Known for its robust industrial base and agricultural prowess—especially in tomato and mushroom cultivation—Solan has become a model of rural-urban synergy. Its economic success is a testament to how strategic investment in industry and agriculture can transform a region.

High Altitude, High Returns
Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur also shine brightly on the economic map. Their low population density, combined with a strong focus on horticulture, has propelled them into the top tier of income earners. These districts demonstrate how even remote areas can thrive with the right mix of natural resources and economic planning.

The Other Side of the Coin
However, not all districts share in this prosperity. Kullu, Una, Bilaspur, Chamba, Mandi, Hamirpur, and especially Kangra—Himachal’s most populous district—are trailing behind, with per capita incomes falling below ₹2 lakh. Kangra, in particular, sits at the bottom with just over ₹1 lakh per person. Experts point to high population pressure and limited industrial development as key factors holding these regions back.

A Call for Balanced Growth
The UNDP report doesn’t just highlight disparities—it calls for action. It emphasizes the importance of targeted economic interventions, improved infrastructure, and job creation in lagging districts to ensure that growth is inclusive and sustainable across the state.

While Himachal Pradesh has much to celebrate, the report serves as a timely reminder: true progress isn’t just about averages—it’s about lifting every district, every community, and every citizen.